Zero Hunger in Schools Program
Connecting Surplus Food with Students in Need
The Zero Hunger in Schools initiative is a groundbreaking program designed to tackle food insecurity among school-aged children by combining community support with innovative technology.
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A partnership between the United Nations Association of Australia (NSW Division), Capgemini, and the Local Community Services Association (LCSA), the project directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2 – Zero Hunger.
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At the heart of the program is the YumYum app, which securely connects local food donors with schools and community centres. This platform allows excess, high-quality food—often destined for landfill—to be redirected to children who would otherwise go without. Teachers and support workers can post food requests, while donors such as grocery stores, caterers and community members can offer supplies, creating a simple, safe and effective solution to a growing problem.
Why it Matters
Food insecurity affects 1 in 5 Australian children each year, negatively impacting their energy, concentration, emotional wellbeing, and educational performance. With more than 5 million tonnes of food going to waste annually in Australia, the Zero Hunger in Schools program offers a smart, community-driven solution that delivers real-world impact.
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The Pilot Project
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In 2022, a successful pilot connected five regional and metropolitan organisations with schools using the YumYum app. Within weeks:
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117 children were identified as attending school without enough food.
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108 children received support through the app.
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Participants rated the platform as user-friendly and effective
What's Next?
The next stage of the initiative focuses on expanding the reach of the program across NSW. This includes recruiting new volunteers, engaging additional community centres and schools, and continuing to refine the YumYum platform based on user feedback.
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If you're a school, local business, community centre or individual wanting to contribute to the Zero Hunger in Schools program, we’d love to hear from you.
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Contact us today to learn more about becoming a donor or volunteer.